Planning For COLLEGE

—Geoffrey Fisher

The road to college begins far earlier than many people think...

(Cue ominous music)

6TH - 8TH GRADES• Aim for good grades, especially in English and Math courses.• Learn a language other than English.• Explore summer programs that develop your interests and reinforce skills.• Check into options for saving/paying for college.• Develop time management and organizational skills.• Get a head start on community service and extra-curricular activities.• Attend school workshops on planning for college.• Meet with your Counselor to plan your high school schedule.

10TH GRADE • Take advantage of free PSAT practice tests • Take challenging courses offered by your school • Meet with your guidance counselor to discuss your course selections • Take appropriate SAT II tests • Attend college fairs and open houses; continue through senior year • Explore summer programs that develop your interest and reinforce skills • Prepare for upcoming PSAT over the summer • Search for colleges that match your interests and preferences and attend college fairs and college visits to your school

11TH GRADEFall • Plan campus visits for the Spring and request additional materials from schools • Do your best on the PSAT in October • Begin researching financial aid and scholarship opportunities • Prepare for spring SAT, ACT, SAT II and any AP exams • Develop a preliminary college list with your counselor as well as interest, possible majors

Spring • Visit Colleges of interest • Plan a summer of meaning, merit and fun • Plan senior year class schedule • Take advantage of the most rigorous courses

Spring • Congratulations on college acceptances! Accept one offer, reject the rest and choose wisely • Establish a budget or allowance plan for school • Have a great summer • Prepare yourself mentally for the college workload and learn more about your career options